The founder of Four Seasons Health Care is looking to take over former
Southern Cross care homes from landlords, following the collapse of the UK's
largest operator.

Robert Kilgour, who currently runs three Scottish care facilities, is already planning to go into partnership with former 11 Southern Cross homes in Scotland with 500 beds and 800 staff.

Southern Cross Healthcare

Southern Cross gave 750 care homes back to landlords this month, after it was unable to pay its rent bills. Around 100 of these are in Scotland. Some landlords already have connections to the care home industry, but others have little experience in operating such facilities.

Mr Kilgour intends to take over operation of the 11 homes by October, which will get a £1m refurbishment, and is open to taking on more of Southern Cross's former portfolio.

Mr Kilgour sold Four Seasons for £127m to listed company Crestacare more than a decade ago.

He said: "In recent weeks it has become apparent that many landlords do not have the experience and track-record to provide the high quality of care that residents and their families expect and deserve.

"Word in the industry has obviously spread and we're receiving a steady stream of enquiries from other landlords looking for help in ensuring a smooth transition away from the difficulties experienced by Southern Cross and I expect we'll be making further announcements about additional Scottish homes in the near future," Mr Kilgour said.

"I have an established team of experienced and trusted figures within the care home sector."